Mayor Newell Clark Tribute | City of Lexington Retirement Video

A Legacy of Leadership and a City Reimagined

After more than a decade of service, Mayor Newell Clark retired from his role as Mayor of the City of Lexington, North Carolina. During his time in office, he guided the city through financial challenges and helped usher in a new era of growth, innovation, and community revitalization. To mark his retirement, the city planned a surprise tribute video—featuring heartfelt messages from the people who witnessed that transformation firsthand.

We were honored to help bring this tribute to life.

A Thank You from the Community

The City of Lexington shared a list of key locations and local leaders who had been directly impacted by Mayor Clark’s initiatives. These included business owners, pastors, community advocates, and creative professionals. Our team managed all outreach, coordinated logistics, and carefully scheduled the interviews and b-roll needed to tell their stories.

Because the video was a surprise, everything had to be handled with extra care. We conducted virtual site visits, built a flexible filming plan, and moved quickly once production began—keeping the project under wraps while staying on schedule.

Capturing a Story of Growth

Over the course of several days, we filmed two-camera interviews and captured b-roll to match each subject’s story. We used dolly slides for subtle motion and employed drone footage to showcase the city from above—offering a perspective that symbolizes Lexington’s upward momentum.

Visually, the video plays with light and shadow, using contrast as a metaphor for Lexington’s journey. The story is one of rising out of the shadows of lost industry and into a future filled with opportunity and pride.

A Moment to Remember

The tribute debuted at a live community event, where Mayor Clark was joined by friends, colleagues, and residents. According to the client, the video received an emotional response—many attendees expressed how much the tribute meant to them and how perfectly it captured the mayor’s impact.

After the premiere, the video was added to the city’s archive, preserving Mayor Clark’s legacy for future generations.

Richard Childress gives a toast to Mayor Newell Clark

Voices Featured

The tribute included voices from a wide range of Lexington’s business and civic community. Each person shared stories and gratitude, reflecting how Mayor Clark’s leadership helped shape their success. Featured participants included:

Lexington Barbecue
Emmanuel Baptist Church
Goose and the Monkey Brewhouse
Bull City Ciderworks
Shook Kelley (architectural firm based in Charlotte)
Red Donut Shop
Childress Vineyards (owned by NASCAR legend Richard Childress, who gave a special toast)

Final Thoughts

Mayor Newell Clark didn’t just serve his city—he helped it reimagine what was possible. From rebuilding the economy to nurturing a sense of pride and belonging, his leadership left a legacy that continues to shape Lexington today.

We’re grateful to have helped tell that story. And we’re proud to have created a piece that honors his dedication in a meaningful, lasting way.

Want to mark a milestone with something unforgettable? Let’s make it happen.